Phony Water Crew Steals $1,300 From Greensburg Woman

GREENSBURG (KDKA) – An elderly woman in Greensburg was tricked by three men posing as utility workers. When they left, they took over $1,000 in cash.

The victim was an 84- year-old woman. The suspects were three men claiming to work for the water company, who ended up stealing about $1,300.

“They told her that there was a water break down the street and they wanted to check her faucets and water to make sure everything was okay. She let them in the house,” Chad Zucco of the Greensburg Police said.

According to police, the incident happened in the 800-block of Highland Avenue Friday afternoon.

“They went through the house, checking a few faucets, told her that they wanted to pay her for using her water to test the water. When they told her that, they said they had a $100 bill and they needed change for it. When she went to the area where she kept her money, they observed where she was,” Zucco said.

The woman was not physically hurt, but police say she was visibly shaken.

“She was very upset. Somebody had taken advantage of her and came into her house, and she thought they were legit and obviously, they weren’t,” Zucco said.

Police said there have been four of these types of robberies this month and they believe that one of the suspects in this case may have been involved in others.

“Hispanic males. At least the one that talked to her had an accent. Approximately 5-feet-6-inches to 5-feet-8-inches, Stocky build, dark hair,” Zucco said.

Until police solve the case, they have a few words of warning.

“Any utility people that come to your residence are going to have ID. Don’t be afraid to call whichever utility company it might be. Check if they’re in the area. If they can’t get a response, call the police and we’ll check it,” Zucco said.